Hidden in the boundless blue of the Pacific Ocean, Robinson Crusoe Island has been one of Chile’s most remote but breathtaking retreats for centuries. Renowned for its untamed landscapes, remarkable wildlife, and top-notch diving sites, the island has been a privileged yet secluded refuge – until now. With Aerocardal’s enhanced air service, travelers now have the chance to reach this incredible destination with more ease and comfort than ever before.
A new era of connectivity
Trips to Robinson Crusoe Island were a logistical hurdle for decades. The island’s remoteness from the Chilean mainland, a whopping 670 kilometers out to sea, meant that traveling there was mostly restricted to lengthy and unpredictable boat rides. Aerocardal has democratized access to this hidden gem with seasonal direct flights between Santiago and the island’s airstrip.
The latest introduction to our fleet of the Let L-410 NG aircraft, a cutting-edge turboprop from Aircraft Industries, has been nothing short of a game changer. The airplane contributes to our operating capacity with the ability to carry 11 passengers on the outbound flight to the island and 17 back to the continent.
The L-410 NG, with its state-of-the-art avionics and short takeoff and landing (STOL) features, is perfectly suited for the operational conditions of the island. It provides a secure, comfortable, and enjoyable flight for tourists who wish to see Robinson Crusoe’s natural wonders.
Beyond transport: dedication to sustainable tourism
At Aerocardal, we recognize that connectivity isn’t just transport – it’s connecting responsible tourism that benefits both tourists and island communities. We operate our flights seasonally to assist in responsible tourism, so the number of tourists is in balance with the island’s nature preservation initiatives.
The Juan Fernández Islands, to which Robinson Crusoe Island is part of, form a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that is home to unique flora and fauna that are found nowhere else on Earth. By enabling direct air access, we cut down on the environmental cost of sea travel and provide a convenient option for travelers who want to visit the island in an environmentally friendly manner.
Additionally, our activities are designed to benefit the economy of the island. By opening the island, we benefit local businesses such as eco-lodges, dive operators, and tour guides. Greater connectivity empowers local communities to grow while maintaining the fine balance between conservation and development.
A world-class destination for adventure seekers
Robinson Crusoe Island is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and exciting outdoor adventures. With Aerocardal, adventure seekers can now comfortably reach this secret paradise. From trekking across volcanic terrain, ascending through thick forests, to scuba diving in the island’s crystal-clear waters, the possibilities for adventure are limitless.
For divers, Robinson Crusoe Island ranks among the top diving spots in the world. The island’s marine life is blessed with incredible biodiversity, featuring endemic fish and colorful coral reefs. The wreck of the SMS Dresden, a German cruiser sunk in Cumberland Bay during World War I, provides a dash of history to the island’s diving spots. With water clarity frequently more than 30 meters, divers are treated to an underwater paradise like none other.
Improving the travel experience
Aerocardal is committed to delivering an unmatched travel experience. From the time visitors board our aircraft, they can look forward to incomparable comfort and service. Our flights are optimized to reduce travel fatigue, enabling guests to spend more time on the island. The spacious cabin of the L-410 NG and state-of-the-art noise-suppression technology ensures our guests a comfortable, pleasant flight.
Additionally, our flight timetables are carefully designed to fit different travel requirements, such as connections for those international visitors who arrive in Santiago. We know that Robinson Crusoe Island is a dream destination for most, and we work to make the trip as easy as possible.
Beyond the operational component of connecting Chile’s mainland with the island, we are continuously looking for opportunities to improve our operations, develop more sustainable aviation solutions, and better align our services with the island’s tourism infrastructure. As demand increases for distinctive and remote travel experiences, we continue to be dedicated to delivering safe, dependable, and environmentally friendly connectivity to this incredible destination.
Robinson Crusoe Island is no longer a distant dream, it is now within your reach. With our upgraded air service, tourists can now experience the mystique of this Pacific paradise with greater ease than ever before. We invite you to discover the pure beauty of Robinson Crusoe Island and experience an adventure you will never forget.
By Ricardo Real, Aerocardal CEO
Aerocardal is a leader in air ambulance, charter, and cargo services in South America. Based in Chile, the company has made a difference by providing outstanding aviation solutions to various industries. Focusing on safety, reliability, and innovation, Aerocardal is constantly pioneering the industry through versatile air transport services focusing on efficiency.
